How to Make Roman Semolina Gnocchi (Gnocchi alla Romana)
Gnocchi, the beloved Italian dumplings, come in various forms and flavors. One particular variation that stands out is Roman Semolina Gnocchi, also known as Gnocchi alla Romana. Made with semolina flour, these gnocchi have a distinct texture and taste that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Follow these simple steps to recreate this traditional Roman dish in the comfort of your own kitchen:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup semolina flour
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the milk to a simmer over medium heat.
- Gradually whisk in the semolina flour, making sure there are no lumps.
- Continue stirring the mixture for about 5 minutes, until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spreading it out evenly to a thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Allow the mixture to cool and set for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out small discs from the cooled semolina mixture.
- Arrange the discs in a buttered baking dish, slightly overlapping them.
- Drizzle some melted butter over the top and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the gnocchi are golden brown and crispy on top.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, and serve hot.
Now that you know how to make Roman Semolina Gnocchi (Gnocchi alla Romana), you can impress your family and friends with this unique and delicious dish. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, these gnocchi are sure to become a new favorite on your dining table. Buon appetito!
Want to discuss this recipe further or share your own tips for making gnocchi alla Romana? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum and let’s talk about How To Make Roman Semolina Gnocchi (Gnocchi Alla Romana)!
FAQ:
What is Roman Semolina Gnocchi (Gnocchi alla Romana)?
Roman Semolina Gnocchi, also known as Gnocchi alla Romana, is a traditional Italian dish made with semolina flour, milk, butter, and cheese. It is a type of gnocchi that is not made with potatoes like the more common potato gnocchi.
How is Roman Semolina Gnocchi different from other types of gnocchi?
Roman Semolina Gnocchi stands out from other gnocchi varieties due to its unique preparation method. Instead of using potatoes, it is made with semolina flour, resulting in a smooth, delicate texture. Additionally, Roman Semolina Gnocchi is typically baked in the oven, whereas other gnocchi is boiled.
Can I make Roman Semolina Gnocchi gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Roman Semolina Gnocchi gluten-free by using a gluten-free semolina substitute, such as cornmeal or a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the packaging to ensure it is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare Roman Semolina Gnocchi in advance?
Absolutely! Roman Semolina Gnocchi can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for later use. After shaping the gnocchi, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until ready to cook. They can be stored for up to 24 hours before cooking.
How do I shape Roman Semolina Gnocchi?
To shape Roman Semolina Gnocchi, roll out the cooked semolina mixture into a thick sheet on a lightly floured surface. Then, use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut out individual circles. You can also opt to shape the gnocchi into small logs or rectangles using a knife.
What should I serve with Roman Semolina Gnocchi?
Roman Semolina Gnocchi pairs well with a variety of sauces and toppings. Traditional Roman recipes often call for a simple butter and Parmesan cheese topping. However, you can also serve it with tomato sauce, ragu, or a creamy cheese sauce. It can even be topped with sautéed mushrooms, fresh herbs, or chopped vegetables for added flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Roman Semolina Gnocchi?
Yes, you can freeze Roman Semolina Gnocchi. Once the gnocchi are shaped and cooked, let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. To cook them from frozen, simply bake them in the oven as you would with fresh gnocchi.
Was this page helpful?
Related Articles
